Loosed on Earth and Heaven-Bound
A Reflection for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time
Brent Smith, Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
Isaiah 22:19-23 | Psalm 138 | Romans 11:33-36| Matthew 16:13-20
An incredible conversation leads Jesus our savior to grant St. Peter a vital responsibility: directing the universal Church as its rock-solid, Christ-appointed foundation. While Peter’s acceptance of “the keys to the kingdom of heaven” is worth remembering for our understanding why there’s a papacy (Mt 16:19, signifying his authority), the way he first responds to Jesus is confirmation of something greater. A firm belief in Jesus as “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16) is what assured Jesus of Peter’s determination to know him according to his truest identity.
Christ, as the fulfillment of the Father’s love for humanity, came to earth to reveal “the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God” (Rom 11:33). Those mysteries are preserved by the Catholic Church! For most of us, our main involvement in Church is weekend Mass. Thankfully, everything about the holy Mass is meant to share heavenly treasures.
Spend time reflecting upon the timeless mission of the Church and equally so of the successor of St. Peter: encouraging men and women alike to resist the bondage of disorderly sin through the Sacraments. In living by the influence of the Gospel, we are free to reveal to others the identity of Jesus. In communion with the Father, he is the one who sends the Holy Spirit into our lives. May we accept his promptings to praise his divine glory, be transformed by grace, and be led to share his mercy with others.
Lord, your love is eternal. Complete the work that you have begun. (Ps. 138:8 ~ Good News Translation)